1967 Aston Martin DB6 Sports Saloon
Registration no. MAP 208E (not registered with DVLA)
Chassis no. DB6/3155/R
Engine no. 400/2327 (see text)

The culmination of Aston Martin's long-running line of Touring-styled 'DB' six-cylinder sports saloons, and thus considered by many to be the last 'real' Aston, the DB6 was introduced in 1965, updating the DB5. Although recognisably related to the Touring-styled DB4 of 1958, the DB6 abandoned the Superleggera body structure of its predecessors in favour of a conventional steel fabrication. The wheelbase was now 4" longer than before, resulting in an extensive re-style with more-raked windscreen, raised roofline and reshaped rear quarter windows. Opening front quarter lights made a reappearance, but the major change was at the rear where a Kamm-style tail with spoiler improved the aerodynamics, greatly enhancing stability at high speeds.

The Tadek Marek-designed six-cylinder engine had been enlarged to 3,995cc for the preceding DB5 and remained unchanged. Power output on triple SU carburettors was 282bhp, rising to 325bhp in Vantage specification. Borg-Warner automatic transmission was offered alongside the standard ZF five-speed gearbox, and for the first time there was optional power-assisted steering.

A right-hand drive model equipped with the desirable five-speed manual gearbox, '3155/R' left the factory in December 1967 finished in Olive with black trim. According to the copy guarantee form on file, the car was equipped with the following items of non-standard equipment: chrome road wheels; heated rear screen; 3 ear hubcaps; safety belts; Motorola radio, and a power aerial. The DB6 was retailed via H R Owen and sold new to one D Baker, Esq of Sussex. Subsequent owners are not known up to July 1984 when the Aston was registered to a Charles Paton of London.

Next owner K R Hollingsworth of London acquired 'MAP 280E' in April 1996, by which time its original engine ('3052') had been replaced with the current unit, '2327'. Major works undertaken while in Mr Hollingsworth's care included an 'unleaded' cylinder head conversion (by Oselli), a gearbox overhaul (by Andy Chapman), and new clutch (by Rikki Cann). The current owner purchased the DB6 at Bonhams' Goodwood Revival sale in August 2007 (Lot 220), and exported it, since when it has been kept in storage. The car is offered with an expired V5 registration document. Due to its years in storage, this car will require recommissioning prior to returning to the road.

Please note that if this vehicle is to remain in the UK, it will be subject to Import VAT at the reduced rate of 5% on the hammer price. It will also require a NOVA (Notification of Vehicle Arrival) and an additional fee of £250 (plus VAT) will be charged on the Invoice to prepare the NOVA. If you have any questions regarding customs clearance, please contact the Bonhams Motorcar Department or our recommended shippers.